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Rays Activate Jesse Scholtens from IL, Option Him to Triple-A for Further Development
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- Rays Activate Jesse Scholtens from IL, Option Him to Triple-A for Further Development
The Tampa Bay Rays activated right-hander Jesse Scholtens from the 15-day injured list on Thursday but immediately optioned him to Triple-A Durham, choosing to keep their major league pitching staff unchanged.
Scholtens had been sidelined since late May with a right wrist strain and recently completed a rehab assignment. While healthy enough to return, Tampa Bay opted to give him more time at Durham rather than adding him back to the active roster.
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The move allows the American League East-leading Rays to maintain bullpen depth while keeping Scholtens available should another pitching need arise. Before his injury, the 32-year-old appeared in nine games, including two starts, posting a 3.82 ERA with 30 strikeouts over 37.2 innings.
The Rays' decision follows Scholtens' final rehab outing with Triple-A Durham, where he completed his throwing progression after beginning his rehab in the Florida Complex League. Although his velocity returned, the organization preferred that he continue refining his command before another major league opportunity.
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Tampa Bay has relied heavily on its pitching depth throughout the season after multiple injuries affected the staff. Keeping Scholtens stretched out in Durham provides an experienced option capable of filling either a long relief or spot-start role if needed.
Tampa Bay Rays manager Kevin Cash (16) Peter Aiken-Imagn Images
The Rays entered Thursday atop the AL East with a 59-42 record, holding a 2.5-game lead over the New York Yankees . Their organizational pitching depth has been a major factor in maintaining first place despite injuries throughout the rotation and bullpen.
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Scholtens' option is not expected to be a long-term setback. With the trade deadline approaching and the Rays continuing their playoff push, another strong stretch at Triple-A could quickly earn him another call-up if the club needs additional pitching.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jul 23, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
